Lighting system and method to control a lighting system

ABSTRACT

An LED lighting system is disclosed, which generally consists of an enclosure, one or more LED modules, one or more transformers, and one or more drivers. A lamp assembly is disclosed, which generally consists of one or more vertically oriented LED chips, thermally conductive shells, and a thermally dissipating means positioned at the back of the LED chips. An LED module is disclosed, which generally consists of a lamp assembly, one or more reflectors and modules caps. A method of controlling light intensities is disclosed, which generally consists of method of decreasing light intensities in areas with little occupancy while minimizing user annoyance resulting from drastic light intensity fluctuations. A universal mounting bracket is disclosed, which generally consists of a fixture plate, mounting plate, and an adjustable means.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

The present application for patent is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/312,198 entitled “Lighting System and Method toControl a Lighting System” filed Jun. 23, 2014, which claims priority toU.S. Provisional Application No. 61/838,183 entitled “System and Methodfor Controlling LED Lights” filed Jun. 21, 2013. Each of the abovementioned applications are incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Field

The present invention pertains to the field of LED lights and morespecifically to a LED lighting fixture and components, universalmounting bracket and a method to control a lighting system.

Background

The ambient LED market is growing rapidly due to the promise of lowpower consumption and long life versus conventional lighting sourcessuch as incandescent, fluorescent, and high intensity discharge. The newLED paradigm presents a challenge for all conventional lighting fixturemanufacturers that are used to buying pre-manufactured lamps andballasts (power conditioners) as a system.

Many entered the world of electronics and developed proprietary printedcircuit boards to support the light emitting diodes that they purchasedseparately along with custom made LED drivers (power conditioners). Thisrequires a level of expertise that is unfamiliar to most fixturemanufacturers who are used to building housings and opticals aroundlamps and ballasts purchased from others. For success in the LED world,a level of competence must be gained in the critical areas ofelectronics design & thermal engineering. Even the optical output(lambertian distribution) of the LEDs is very different from theconventional light sources listed above. Introducing more complexity tofixture design represents a higher risk of failure unless handledproperly. Some have done this well and some have not.

Recently, a number of tier 1 light emitting diode manufacturers havecome out with complete systems which are similar to conventional models.You can purchase pre-manufactured printed circuit boards (PCB's) thatalready have the LED's mounted along with the requisite drivers andcabling to operate them within specifications given. Design guides areprovided to facilitate successful implementation. This greatly reducesthe risk and barrier to entry for conventional lighting fixturemanufacturers to offer LED based product.

One such product is the Fortimo® system that is offered by Philips®.This is a family of products that comprise LED PCB's of varying lengthand lumen output as well as various drivers and cable sets that allowconnection from driver to PCB and between PCB to PCB. The Fortimo designguide provides recommended installation methods to insure that theproduct performs according to specifications.

The suggested method of installing the LED PCB modules in the designguide and sales literature is to affix the PCB back onto a horizontalmetal substrate (either steel or aluminum) with LEDs facing down usingminiature screws. It is also recommended to apply thermal paste to theback of the PCB prior to fastening to the substrate in order tofacilitate heat dissipation. In the world of LEDs, overcoming heatbuildup at the diode is paramount to success. The prospect of affixingthousands of miniature screws and applying messy thermal pasterepresents significant assembly line time.

We decided to approach this technology from a fresh perspective. Thefirst order was to determine exactly what thermal properties the LED PCBmodules present. Our study revealed that the lowest thermal resistanceoccurs on the front face of the PCB that supports the LEDs as opposed tothe back. We also discovered that if we oriented the boards verticallyas opposed to horizontally we enjoy a significant thermal advantage.Further, since the heat transfer from the PCB backing is limited, theopportunity to position boards back to back became a good option.

Our next goal was to create a method to affix the boards without therequirement of miniature screws and thermal paste. Ideally, we wanted away to eliminate the need for tools that could significantly increaseassembly line speed. The result of our design efforts is the Vertikuhl™system. This method creates a sandwich where the back to back PCB's areseparated by a metal bracket and are also secured in place by metal snapon skins. The center bracket has features that allow for precisionplacement of the PCB's prior to the snap on application of the thermalskins. The assembler can now easily and consistently place the LED PCBmodules on top of the center bracket which lay horizontally on the worktable. Once in place, a metal skin snaps over the module face by meansof punch outs on the skin and correlated lances that are located on thecenter bracket. Note that the skin also has punch outs that correspondto LED and other electronic part locations that are raised off of thePCB face. After complete, the assembly is turned over and the processrepeated for the opposing side.

Background for Semble™ LED Lamp Assembly

Lighting based LED products are proliferating the market for everyconceivable lighting application. Some products are being offered asdirect conventional lamp (bulb) replacements such as LED lamps toreplace incandescent spin-ins for downlighting (potlights) or tracklighting. Others have been made to replace fluorescent lamps. Most ofthese forms have been targeted towards lower lumen output applications.In the case of lower wattage fluorescent replacements, the LED lampmanufacturers place LED PCB strips in a linear fashion within arecognizable fluorescent tube shape and use regular fluorescent lampsockets. The thermal and directional nature of these lamps present someperformance challenges in terms of limits to lumen output vs. MTBF.

For higher lumen applications such as parking lots and warehouses,lighting manufacturers have trended towards the creation of proprietaryLED PCB arrays. The manufacturer purchases individual LEDs and has themplaced on a custom PCB. Sometimes these are modular, others are more orless permanent.

Our desire was to create a universal lamp platform (Semble™) that wouldincorporate our Vertikuhl™ technology and requisite optical elementswhile allowing for tool-less replacement and optional adjustability.Vertikuhl™ creates unitized high or low lumen packages that can becorrelated to existing lamp technologies. Vertikuhl™ light output isdirectionally driven (lambertian distribution) at 90 and 270 degreesfrom nadir. By itself, it does not fit many applications, but coupledwith an efficient light delivery optical system, it can become extremelyuseful in a wide variety of applications.

Conventional light source technologies have allowed for lamps to beeither screwed in or plugged in without the need for tools. This is whatconsumers are used to. While LED promises long life, the reality is thatsometimes long life will not be experienced. Many factors can lead tosignificantly shortened MTBF such as high thermal environments,defective components or product assemblies, site specific powerproblems, etc. Besides being familiar, it is desirable for LED lightsources to be replaceable without the requirement for tools.

As opposed to conventional light sources that provide 360 degree lightdispersion, LEDs send light directionally in a lambertian distributionpattern. This means that either the LED array physically face the taskarea directly or a means of collecting and sending light to desiredareas is required. A number of options can be used for this purpose suchas reflective or refractive media. For an optimal degree of flexibilityit is desirable to further allow for rotation of the Semble™ lampswhereby they can be aimed at the specific task area requiring light.

End caps were created to snap and lock onto the Vertikuhl™ ends withoutthe need for tools. Further, chamfered recesses were created to fit overoptical elements such as highly reflective polished aluminum reflectorsor formed/injection molded/extruded plastic refractors. Specific armswere designed to allow for the end caps to be snapped into place withinformed metal (or other) structures that serve to hold the whole assemblyin place within a fixture body or to a building surface. The arms mayalso be squeezed together by hand to allow for easy removal. Formedprocesses within the end caps were created to support axles that wouldallow rotation of the complete assembly.

Background for AIOS Dimming™—Method to Control a Lighting System

Ideally, the most efficient lighting system would deliver the righttype, quality, and amount of light, only when it is needed. Thisdiscussion considers the “amount” of light and “when” it is needed whichis the domain of lighting controls.

In an effort to curtail power consumption from lighting systems,scientists have developed new light sources such as LED as well as amyriad of lighting controls that turn OFF or DIM down light intensity tosave power. The following provides features and benefits of each controlstrategy along with limitations.

Occupancy Sensors are used to detect human presence within a space. Theyincorporate single or multiple technologies (ie. Passive Infra-red orUltrasonic) to sense motion and turn ON lights when a space is occupied.Some have sensitivity adjustments and most have an adjustable time delay(ie. 30 seconds to 30 minutes). Every time the sensor sees someone itresets an internal timer. When no motion is detected and the timer runsout, the lights are turned OFF. Some sensors are independent and somecontrol single or multiple circuits of lighting while others are mountedto light fixtures directly. There are some sensors that offer photosensing and allow for lights to be turned OFF or ON at a measuredthreshold of natural day light. Other options may allow for separate 2circuit control (ie. Both circuits sensed vs. one sensed and onebypassed), alternating circuit control (ie. To allow even burn times formultiple ballast/lamp fluorescent fixtures), and cold room use. Sensorsare available for a wide variety of space dimensions such as offices,classrooms, and warehouses, to name a few. Occupancy sensors simply andaffordably control lights, but they are limited to an ON/OFF functionunless they are used within a larger lighting control system with lightfixtures that are dimmable. Many applications cannot have lightingturned completely OFF such as retail, public spaces, and fabricationareas with dangerous equipment. Unfortunately when dimming is desired orrequired the systems become cost prohibitive and complex.

Photo Sensors are used to turn artificial lighting OFF or to DIM downand up based on how much natural light is present. The successfulincorporation of this technology has been a challenge. For common areastreet lighting and parking it is accepted that when the sun comes upthe lights go OFF and when the sun goes down the lights go ON. However,when you are controlling personal spaces, not everyone wishes to havetheir lights turn OFF and ON automatically when they are in the space.This has led to a lot of disconnections after installation. Controlsystems have been created to allow lighting to DIM down and up graduallywhich has seen more success, but as with occupancy sensing, this becomesmuch more expensive and complex which limits adoption.

Lighting control systems or centralized control systems incorporatemultiple control strategies and use computers to turn ON, OFF, or DIMlighting fixtures based on programming inputs. These systems may holdintelligence within one computer or may broadly distribute intelligencevia programmable chipsets that reside in smart switching panels orballasts which receive instructions from the computer and keep memory ofthe instructions to be performed independently. By programming you canset outputs based on schedules that must be created or on inputs thatare received from occupancy sensors, photo sensors, manual switches,personal computers, or even from another control system such as HVAC orsecurity. Outputs may go to one light fixture or could go to every lightfixture in the building. There is a lot of flexibility to this approachbut there is also a lot of complexity and cost. These systems must beengineered, commissioned, and maintained by skilled people in order toachieve the potential savings. These systems have the capacity to savethe most power but in order to be realized, significant investment mustbe made at the design, installation, and commissioning stages. Not tomention ongoing maintenance as these systems require continuousadjustment by skilled people.

AIOS Dimming™ fills the void between single strategy controls andcomplex lighting control systems. AIOS Dimming™ monitors human trafficpatterns and automatically adjusts light levels to suit usage within aspace without the need for ongoing maintenance. It is a simpleeconomical control technology that marries artificial intelligence withoccupancy sensing, photo sensing, thermal sensing, and dimming. Eachsensor has a specific function that gets combined with an algorithm toprovide a light level output. Programming is designed to efficientlydeliver light based on human traffic patterns and or specific area orindividual needs.

AIOS Dimming™ is designed to be used per light fixture or optionally mayalso be used to control groups of light fixtures. It incorporates amicrocontroller that takes inputs from an onboard clock, infraredsensor, occupancy sensor, photo sensor, and thermal sensor.*Alternatively, it could take inputs from independent sensors. Using asoftware program and an algorithm, the microcontroller decides whatlight level output to deliver based on inputs it receives from all ofthe sensors and the duration it takes to adjust from one light level toanother.

Programming of the microcontroller occurs through a USB port or throughan infrared or radio frequency sensor that receives information from asmart hand held infrared or radio frequency remote control.

Background for the UNIMPO™ Universal Mounting Bracket

Light fixtures are commonly used in a wide variety of indoorapplications. These fixtures may be formed from steel or aluminum andhouse a plurality of linear fluorescent lamps or light emitting diodes.For aesthetic and/or functional reasons, light fixtures may be directlymounted to ceiling and wall surfaces, or suspended down below theceiling surface. Sometimes it is also desirable to have the fixtureangled towards an application area. Examples of this are mechanicworkshops where fixtures are angled from the wall towards the enginecompartments and swimming pools where lights are angled towards themiddle of the pool from the perimeter deck where they can be accessedeasily.

To accommodate varying mounting requirements, lighting manufacturers mayoffer a range of accessories that allow generic products to be installedin multiple applications or they may build specific products that havelimited application usage. Lighting installers may also find their owncreative means for mounting fixtures when fixtures do not come withspecific accessories or are not specifically built for the intendedapplication.

The results of conventional approaches to light fixture mounting areoften added cost, lead time, and/or complexity. Customers are oftenrequired to pay more and wait longer to accessorize generic products.Installers may also have to endure added cost through on-sitemodifications, either taking fixtures apart, assembling accessories, orcreating an external means of fixation. Therefore, the need exists inthe art for a mounting bracket that is economical and allows usage inmany applications.

The present invention can satisfy the above-described need by providinga small economical accessory that is easy to use and has many differentapplications. The UNIMO™ provides an accessory that takes up very littlespace on the shelf thereby reducing shipping and inventory costs. Theproduct allows usage in many applications: A. Surface Ceiling Mount, B.Surface Ceiling with Adjustable Angle, C. Surface Wall Mount, D. SurfaceWall Mount with Adjustable Angle, E. Single Point Pendent Mount fromConduit (with common electrical box), and F. Single Point Pendent Mountwith Adjustable Angle.

The universal mounting bracket allows simple installation for oneperson. The mounting plate gets affixed first and the installer thensimply applies screws through the fixture plate and into threadedinserts that are located on the top of the fixture. As the fixture plateis hinged to the mounting plate, the installer can set an angle byadjusting a captive aircraft cable through a tool-less adjustable cablegripper that is mounted to the fixture plate.

The mounting plate has a punch out template that allows mating withcommon electrical boxes. The installer may secure a box to electricalconduit, or he may secure a hook or a loop to the box which is common inthe industry. Power wiring or cabling is routed through theconduit/hook/loop and into the box. The electrical box provides spacefor wire splicing and the UNIMO™ mounting plate has a common knockoutlocated in the center for fixture power cabling to enter the box. Oncethe mounting plate is secured to the box, the fixture may be fastened tothe fixture plate. Fixture splicing may be applied while the bracket isin the open position. After splicing is completed, the fixture plate issecured to the mounting plate or may be angled if desired.

SUMMARY

In a first aspect, the present invention provides an LED lighting systemcomprising of an enclosure for receiving one or more LED modules, one ormore transformers connected to an electrical source and to one or moreLED modules, and one or more drivers modulating the electrical input tothe LED modules from the transformer.

In a second aspect, the present invention provides a lamp assemblycomprising of one or more vertically oriented LED chips, thermallyconductive shells that interact with the LED chips to conduct thermalheat from the LED chip, and a thermally dissipating means positioned atthe back of the LED chips.

In a third aspect, the present invention provides an LED modulecomprising of a lamp assembly, one or more reflectors interconnected tothe lamp assembly to reflect light emitted from the lamp assembly, andmodule caps interconnected to the lamp assembly and one or morereflectors to enclose the lamp assembly and the one or more reflectors.

In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides for a method ofcontrolling light intensities. The method is comprised of the followingsteps: initial power on of light system at standby intensity level;detecting occupancy; determining light intensity based on detection ofoccupant; incrementally decrease standby intensity of lights withcontinued non-occupancy; detect occupancy, increase light intensity tomaximum while occupant present, incrementally increase standby intensityof lights upon the departure of occupant; repeat steps until end of workday; and, end of work day locks standby light intensity and operates asa simple set user described pattern.

In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a universal mountingbracket comprising of a fixture plate for mounting to a light fixture, amounting plate for mounting to a surface said mounting plate beinginterconnected to the fixture plate, and an adjustable meansinterconnected to the mounting plate and fixture plate for setting anangle between the fixture plate and the mounting plate.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

It will now be convenient to describe the invention with particularreference to one embodiment of the present invention. It will beappreciated that the drawings relate to one embodiment of the presentinvention only and are not to be taken as limiting the invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a LED lighting system, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1a is a perspective view of a LED lighting system, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1b is a perspective view of a LED lighting system, according toanother embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective exploded view of a LED module, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2a is a perspective exploded view of a LED module, according toanother embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of shell, according to one embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the shell-shell interaction, includingouter shell and inner shell linking mechanisms, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the connected shells, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the shell-shell interaction, accordingto another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the connected shells, according toanother embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the shells, according to anotherembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the Philips® brand Fortimo® LED chip,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the LED chip orientation, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the chip bracket, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an outer region of the chip bracket,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the chip bracket, according to anotherembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of shell mounted over first and second LEDchips, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14a is perspective view of shell mounted over first and second LEDchips, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the first and second LED chips securedonto the chip bracket, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 15a and 15b are perspective views of the first and second LEDchips secured onto the chip bracket, according to another embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIGS. 16, 16 a and 16 b are perspective views of the shell interactingwith the chip bracket, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 17 and 17 a are perspective views of the shell interacting withthe chip bracket, according to another embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the complete LED module, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 18a and 18b are perspective views of the complete LED module,according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the lamp assembly unit, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19a is an exploded view of the lamp assembly unit, according toanother embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the module cap, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a perspective profile view of the module cap, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21a is a perspective profile view of the module cap, according toanother embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21b is a perspective profile view of the module cap, according toanother embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 22 and 23 are perspective views of the Reflector, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 22a and 23a are perspective views of the reflector, according toanother embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the Reflector linking within the modulecap, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24a is a perspective view of reflector linking within the modulecap, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the Reflector linked within the modulecap, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 25a is a perspective view of the reflector linked with the modulecap, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 26 and 26 a perspective views of the first and second shellattached onto the module cap, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the first and second shell attachedonto the module cap, according to another embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 28 and 29 are perspective views of the chip bracket interactingwith the module cap, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the module cap interacting with thechip bracket while encased by the first and second shell, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 31 and 31 a are perspective views of the Lamp Assembly unit,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 32 and 32 a are perspective views of the Lamp Assembly unit,according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the Light Fixture containing a singleLamp Assembly unit, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 33a is a perspective view of a Light Fixture, according to anotherembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 33b is a perspective view of the Light Fixture enclosure, accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 33c is a perspective view of the Light Fixture lacking the backcover, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 33d is a perspective view of a Cosmetic Panel for installation ontoa Light Fixture or LED lighting system, according to one embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIGS. 34 and 35 are perspective views of the rotation plate for use in aLight Fixture or LED lighting system, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 35a is a perspective view of the rotation plate, according toanother embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 36 and 37 are perspective views of the module cap secured withinthe rotation plate, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 36a and 37a are perspective views of the module cap secured withinthe rotation plate, according to another embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 38 and 39 are perspective views of the rotation Mechanism attachedto the rotation plate, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the end plate, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 41, 42 and 43 are perspective views of the end plate interactingwith rotation plate and the rotation mechanism, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a driver channel for use in a LightFixture or LED lighting system, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIGS. 45 and 46 are perspective views of the driver channel fastened tothe end plate, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of the hollow bridge encapsulating theTransformer, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the of a capped hollow bridge,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the driver channel interacting with thehollow bridge, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of the rotation plate attached to thehollow bridge, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of the Light Fixture containing a singleLamp Assembly unit, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 52 and 53 are perspective flow chart representing the method ofcontrolling a lighting system, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 54 is a perspective flow chart representing the cycling processemployed by the method of controlling a lighting system, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 55 is a perspective view of the Unimo™ universal mounting bracket,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the mounting plate, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 57 is a perspective view of the fixture plate, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 58 is a perspective view of a closed Unimo™ universal mountingbracket, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 59 is a perspective view of a partially open Unimo™ universalmounting bracket, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a fully open Unimo™ universal mountingbracket, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of the Unimo™ universal mounting bracketattached to a light fixture, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

The Figures are not to scale and some features may be exaggerated orminimized to show details of particular elements while related elementsmay have been eliminated to prevent obscuring novel aspects. Therefore,specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not tobe interpreted as limiting but merely as a basis for the claims and as arepresentative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variouslyemploy the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred and otherembodiments of the invention are shown. No embodiment described belowlimits any claimed invention and any claimed invention may coverprocesses or apparatuses that are not described below. The claimedinventions are not limited to apparatuses or processes having all thefeatures of any one apparatus or process described below or to featurescommon to multiple or all of the apparatuses described below. It ispossible that an apparatus or process described below is not anembodiment of any claimed invention. The applicants, inventors or ownersreserve all rights that they may have in any invention claimed in thisdocument, for example the right to claim such an invention in acontinuing application and do not intend to abandon, disclaim ordedicate to the public any such invention by its disclosure in thisdocument.

The terms “coupled” and “connected,” along with their derivatives, maybe used herein. It should be understood that these terms are notintended as synonyms for each other. Rather, in particular embodiments,“connected” may be used to indicate that two or more elements are indirect physical or electrical contact with each other. “Coupled” may beused to indicated that two or more elements are in either direct orindirect (with other intervening elements between them) physical orelectrical contact with each other, or that the two or more elementsco-operate or interact with each other (e.g. as in a cause and effectrelationship).

Overview

An LED lighting system is disclosed, which generally consists of anenclosure, one or more LED modules, one or more transformers, and one ormore drivers. The LED modules, transformers and drivers are fittedwithin the enclosure. An electrical current is passed from theelectrical source to the transformers then to the drivers where it ismodulated. The modulated electrical current is passed to the LED module.

A lamp assembly is disclosed, which generally consists of one or morevertically oriented LED chips, thermally conductive shells, and athermally dissipating means positioned at the back of the LED chips.Once vertically positioned within the thermally conductive shell, theLED chips make contact with the thermally conductive shells. The contactbetween the LED chips and the thermally conductive shells allows heatformed on the LED chips to conduct onto the thermally conductive shells.The heat is subsequently dissipated off of the shells. In addition, thepositioning of the LED chips within the shells allows for a thermallyconducting means to be situated on the back of the LED chips. Thethermally conductive means further dissipates the heat formed on the LEDchips.

An LED module is disclosed, which generally consists of a lamp assembly,one or more reflectors and modules caps. The lamp assembly isinterconnected to the reflectors. Based on the vertical positioning ofthe LED chips within the LED module, light emitted from the LED moduleis horizontal. The reflectors reflect the horizontal light emitted fromthe lamp assembly. The module caps are interconnected to the lampassembly and to the reflectors.

A method of controlling light intensities is disclosed, which generallyconsists of method of decreasing light intensities in areas with littleoccupancy while minimizing user annoyance resulting from drastic lightintensity fluctuations. Decreasing standby intensity level decreases theelectrical consumption without altering occupant visibility level. As anoccupant enters an area, the light intensity is changed from standbyintensity to the highest intensity level, thus allowing the occupantfull visibility. Standby light intensities are varied depending on useroccupancy. The higher the occupancy level, the higher the standby lightintensity. A higher standby intensity level in high occupancy areasminimizes user annoyance as the light intensity fluctuation is minimal.End of day parameters lock the standby light intensity levels andoperates with simple set user described pattern.

A universal mounting bracket is disclosed, which generally consists of afixture plate, mounting plate, and an adjustable means. The fixtureplate and the mounting plate are connected. A light fixture is mountedon the fixture plate. The mounting plate is affixed to a surface,thereby setting the light fixture onto a surface. The angle betweenmounting plate and fixture plate can be adjusted through the adjustablemeans. By altering the angle between the fixture plate and the mountingplate alters the angle between the light fixture and the surface.

Lighting System and Methods for Controlling the Same

With reference to FIG. 1 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention the LED lighting system 5 is shown. The lighting system isshown attached to a cosmetic plate 1.

With reference to FIG. 1a and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention the LED lighting system 5 is shown. The LED lighting system 5is primarily comprised of first and second end plates 10, 12, a hollowbridge 15, and first and second driver channel 20, 22 (not shown).

With further reference to FIG. 1a and according to one embodiment of thepresent invention, first and second openings 25, 27 are shown within LEDLighting System 5 with first opening 25 defined as an opening betweenthe end plate 10, channel driver 20, and hollow bridge 15 and the secondopening 27 defined as the opening between end plate 12, channel driver20, and hollow bridge 15. The first and second openings 25, 27 arecapable of housing multiple parallel lamp assembly units 30. Parallellamp assembly units 30 can be fitted into first or second openings 25,27. For illustrative purposes, FIG. 1a describes first opening 25containing a single lamp assembly 30 and second opening 27 containingthree lamp assembly units 30. A worker skilled in the relevant art wouldappreciate the various combinations of lamp assembly units 30 that canbe fitted onto the first and second opening 25, 27. Once fitted, thelamp assembly unit 30 can rotate axially to a fixed angle in order todirect or focus light to specific, user requested regions.

With reference to FIG. 1b and according to another embodiment of thepresent invention the LED lighting system is shown. In thisconfiguration, the lighting system is housed within enclosure 2. Thehollow bridge 15, the first and second driver channel 20, 22, and thefirst and second end plates 10, 12 form the structural elements of theenclosure 2. The present invention has three distinct components: 1. TheLED module 35; 2. The Lamp Assembly 30; and 3. The LED lighting system5. Each will be further described separately below based on theknowledge of a worker skilled in the relevant art. The terms “LEDlighting system” and “light fixture” are used interchangeably and referto a similar system and/or fixture.

1. LED Module

With reference to FIG. 2 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention the components of the LED module 35 are described in greaterdetail. The LED module 35 consists of first and second thermallyconductive shells 50, 52, LED chips 55, 57, 59, 61, and a chip bracket65. The first and second thermally conductive shells 50, 52 are axiallymirrored and clasp together to form the housing of the LED module 35.LED chips 55 and 57 are vertically positioned side by side with at leastone extremity of said LED chips 55 and 57 in close proximity to oneanother. In one embodiment of the present invention, the extremities ofLED chips 55 and 57 touch one another. LED chips 59, 61 positionedsimilarly as LED chips 55, 57 but are axially rotated 180 degrees. Thevertical positioning of the LED chips 55, 57, 59, and 61 can bepositioned anywhere from 45° to 90° with respect to the top or bottomplane of the chip bracket 65, with an optimal placement at 90°. The chipbracket 65 functions to hold LED chips 55, 57, 59, 61 and to dissipateheat from the core of the LED module 35.

With reference to FIG. 2a and according to another embodiment of thepresent invention the components of the LED module 35 are described ingreater detail. The LED module 35 outlined in FIG. 2a is intended foruse with high density LED lamp fixtures. The high density LED lampfixtures emit a large amount of heat. In order to use the high densityLED chips, the LED module 35 requires a greater ability to dissipate theheat in order to further decrease the chips thermal signature. The firstand second thermally conductive shells 50 and 52 under this embodimenthave a thermal conducting line 113 that touches the PCB just above theLEDs. The thermal conducting line 113 transfers heat emitted from theface of the PCB to a large surface area of heat within the radiatingfins 114. The fins 114 increase the amount of area that is exposed toconvective cooling. Additionally, chip bracket 65 further facilitatesdissipation of heat. The chip bracket 65 permits air flow between theLED boards thereby further dissipating the heat emitted by the LEDchips.

The vertical orientation of LED chips yields a number of benefits ascompared to conventional horizontal orientation, with LED's facing down.Vertical orientation along with heat sinking elements affixed to frontand back faces of the LED chips significantly reduces heat buildup inthe LED. Reducing LED thermals results in higher light output per wattand an increased life span of the LEDs. Cool air from below is allowedto convect up across the front and back face of the LED chips and theassociated heat sinking elements. To increase light output density, LEDchips may be positioned back to back, separated by a specific air gapthat allows for adequate air to flow between the LED chips.Alternatively, the specific air gap can be supplanted with heat sinkelements of specific width. The heat sink elements increase the totalsurface area from which heat dissipation can occur at the back of theLED chips. A worker skilled in the relevant art would appreciate thevarious heat sink materials and perforated shapes that would permitoptimal heat dissipation from the back of the PCB. In addition, thevertical orientation prevents particulates, such as dirt and dust, fromaccumulating on the LEDs and the heat sinking elements. Dustaccumulation acts like an insulative blanket making horizontal PCB'sless effective and less efficient. Vertical orientation provides theleast amount of surface area for particulates to rest upon. Further,convective flows serve to provide a cleaning effect.

Vertical orientation of the LEDs provides the flexibility to shape lightdistribution while improving visual comfort and total fixtureefficiency. Conventional horizontal orientation of the LED provides ageneral wide pattern of light distribution. Methods that shape lightmainly focus on lenses that mount directly over each individual LED or asingle lens that that mounts to the fixture below the LED chips. Eithermethod substantially increases costs and decreases fixture light outputefficiency. Vertical orientation of the LED chips positions the LEDsperpendicular to the ground. The perpendicular orientation of the LEDspermits shaping and distribution of light without affecting thermalperformance. A reflector (not shown) may be shaped to efficiently pushthe LED light towards the ground directly below the fixture. Conversely,the reflector (not shown) may be shaped in a fashion that reduces lightbelow the fixture while increasing the light at high angles. Thereflectors may extend below the plane of the LEDs, thereby minimizinguser contact with direct light. Reflectors may be produced from a wideassortment of surface types, from diffused to specular with manyvariations in between. A worker skilled in the relevant would appreciatethe various methods of shaping the LED light using reflectors of variousshapes and reflective properties.

With reference to FIG. 3 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the first thermally conductive shell 50 is shown in greaterdetail. The edges of the first thermally conductive shell 50 arebevelled 70, 72 and 74 in order to encapsulate the inner portions of theLED module 35. The vertically opposed bevel 72 contains an upper andlower aperture 77, 78. A corresponding vertical bevel positioned on theopposite end of bevel 72 is present but not shown. The horizontallyopposed bevels 70, 74 include additional depressed protrusions 79 whichare dispersed throughout the length of the first thermally conductiveshell 50 in order to interact with second shell (not shown) uponformation of the LED module 35. The length of bevelled edges 70, 72, 74and 76 (not shown) along with the associated depressed and claspingprotrusions 79 and 102 is dependent on the width of the chip bracket 65(not shown). In another embodiment of the present invention thehorizontally opposed bevels 70, 74 along with the depressed protrusions79 are perforated. The perforated nature of the horizontally opposedbevels 70, 74, along with the corresponding depressed protrusion 79 andclasping protrusion 102 permit air to flow between the first and secondthermally conductive shell 50, 52 when connected. Rectangular slots 80adorn the central region of the first thermally conductive shell 50.Each slot 80 is uniformly shaped and is positioned equidistantlythroughout the first thermally conductive shell 50 to receive the LEDlights (not shown). First and second receiving apertures 85, 87 resideon the upper corners of the first thermally conductive shell 50.Additional openings 90, 92, 94, 96 are located throughout the firstthermally conductive shell 50. Interlocking clasp protrusions 100, 102are located on the upper beveled region of the first thermallyconductive shell 50. In another embodiment the thermally conductiveshell 50 contains vertical fins (not shown) on the upper front surface.The height of the fins (not shown) varies from a minimum of 1 mm to amaximum of 75 mm. The second shell (not shown) has identical features ofthe first thermally conductive shell 50.

With reference to FIG. 4 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the first and second thermally conductive shells 50, 52 areshown in greater detail. Second shell 52 is a duplicate of the firstthermally conductive shell 50 rotated 180 degrees on the vertical axis.As the first and second thermally conductive shells 50, 52 align forcoupling; the depressed protrusions 79 are offset with claspingprotrusions 102 allowing the first and second thermally conductive shell50, 52 to connect. In another embodiment of the present invention thehorizontally opposed bevels 70, 74 along with the depressed protrusions79 are perforated. The perforated nature of the horizontally opposedbevels 70, 74, along with the corresponding depressed protrusion 79 andclasping protrusion 102 permit air to flow between the first and secondthermally conductive shell 50, 52 when connected.

With further reference to FIG. 4 a shell latching mechanism is shown ingreater detail according to one embodiment of the present invention.Interlocking clasp protrusions 100, 102 of first and second thermallyconductive shells 50, 52 align with a depressed protrusion 79 of theopposite shell. Consequently, when the first and second thermallyconductive shells 50, 52 are secured together, the beveled latches 104,and 106 clip into the first and second Protrusion Holes 108, 110respectively.

With reference to FIG. 5 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, first and second thermally conductive shells 50, 52 arerepresented in a secured configuration forming the LED module shell 54.The first thermally conductive shell 50 is able to engage with thesecond shell 52 through interlocking beveled edges 70 and 74 as presenton shells 50 and 52. The Interlocking clasp protrusion 100 of the firstand second thermally conductive shell 50, 52 interlock with itsassociated depressed beveled protrusions (not shown).

With reference to FIG. 6, and according to another embodiment of thepresent invention, the first and second thermally conductive shells 50,52 are shown. A worker skilled in the relevant art would appreciate thevarious alternative latching and fastening mechanisms that can beemployed to secure first and second thermally conductive shells 50, 52together. The first and second thermally conductive shells 50, 52contain bolt supporting members 115 protruding from the beveled surfaces74 as present on thermally conductive shells 50 and 52. As clearly shownin FIG. 6 in greater detail, the first and second thermally conductiveshells 50, 52 maintain the beveled latch 106 and protrusion hole 110within the depressed beveled protrusion 79 while incorporating the boltsupporting member 115. With reference to FIG. 7, the first and secondmodified thermally conductive shells 50, 52 are represented in a closedconfirmation forming the LED module shell 54.

With reference to FIG. 8 and according to another embodiment of thepresent invention, the first and second thermally conductive shells 50,52 are shown. In this embodiment, the first and second thermallyconductive shells 50 and 52 do not interact with each other. Rather, thefirst and second thermally conductive shells 50 and 52 are connectedthrough interaction with other components of the LED module (not shown).A worker skilled in the relevant art would appreciate the variousalternative latching and fastening mechanisms that can be employed tosecure the first and second thermally conductive shells 50 and 52 ontothe LED module. The first and second thermally conductive shells 50 and52 are separated by gap 71. The gap 71 permits air to flow between thefirst and second thermally conductive shells 50 and 52. To facilitateheat dissipation by air flow on the outer region of the LED module (notshown), vertical fins 114 adorn the outer surface of the first andsecond thermally conductive shells 50 and 52. The height of the finsvaries from a minimum of 1 mm to a maximum of 75 mm. The optimal spacingbetween each fin 114 is shown. A worker skilled in the relevant artwould appreciate that the number of and distance between each fin 114 isdependent on the size of the LED module 35 and the thermal output of theLED chip boards (not shown). The thermal conducting line 113 transfersheat emitted from the face of the PCB to a large surface area of heatwithin the radiating fins 114. The fins 114 increase the amount of areathat is exposed to convective cooling.

With reference to FIG. 9 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the first LED chip 55 is shown in greater detail. The firstLED chip 55 is a commercially available Philips® brand Fortimo® LED linesystem (1100 lm 765 1R LV1). Twenty-two LED lights 120 adorn the face ofthe first LED chip 55. The LED lights 120 are distributed horizontallyand aligned along the face of the LED chip 55. Three electricalconnectors 133, 134, 135 are positioned along the face of the first LEDchip 55. The upper corners of the LED chip 55 are notched withrectangular grooves 125. First and second securing members 130, 132 arelocated on the lower regions of the LED chip 55. The LED chips used inthe present invention have identical features.

With reference to FIG. 10 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, LED chips 55, 57, 59, 61 are shown in a configuration. LEDchips 55 and 57 are positioned adjacent to one another and in a manneras to have the LED lights 120 facing the same direction. LED lights 59and 61 are arranged in the same manner but are rotated 180 degreesaxially.

With reference to FIGS. 11 and 12 and according to one embodiment of thepresent invention, the chip bracket 65 is shown in greater detail. Thechip bracket 65 is comprised of folded beveled edges that give rise tothe first and second positioning braces 160, 161. The folded bevelededges can vary in length from 2 mm to 75 mm. The positioning braces 160,161 contain brace latches 162, 164, 166, 168 protruding from positioningbraces 160 and 161. The chip bracket 65 also has upper and lower chipmounts arms 136, 137, located on the upper and lower periphery of thechip bracket 65. First and second connecting members 170, 172 arelocated on the lower extremity of the chip bracket 65. In anotherembodiment of the present invention the chip bracket 65 can beconstructed as a solid, or a heavily woven thermally conductivematerial. The solid chip bracket 65 will be used in conjunction withmetal core LED chip boards. The metal core LED chip boards have adecreased thermal resistance to heat transfer at the back of the board.The thermally conductive chip bracket 65 conducts heat quickly from thesurface of the metal core LED chip board. The woven chip bracket 65 withincreased surface area dissipates heat as air passed through the weave.A worker skilled in the relevant art would appreciate the various weavepatterns that would increase surface area while permitting air to passthrough the chip bracket. A solid, thermally conductive chip bracket 65conducts heat from the surface of the metal core LED chip boards. Asolid core chip bracket 65 can also conduct the heat away from the metalcore LED boards and transfer the heat to the shells (not shown), wherethe heat is subsequently dissipated by natural air flow. With specificreference to FIG. 11 the first connecting member 170 is located on thedorsal portion of the chip bracket 65 but recessed behind thepositioning brace 160.

With reference to FIG. 13 and according to another embodiment of thepresent invention, the chip bracket 65 is shown in greater detail. Thechip bracket 65 is comprised of two center walls 63 and 64 connected bystrut 146 and link 148. The struts 146 and links 148 allow air to passthrough the center of the chip bracket 65, through gap 71. A workerskilled in the relevant art would appreciate the various connectingmechanisms that interconnect the center walls 63 and 64 whilemaintaining gap 71. The width of the gap 71 is determined by the densityand heat emission of the LED chips (not shown). Variation in gap width71 will be described in subsequent sections. The center walls of thechip bracket 64 contain large openings 150 that are partitioned by thestruts 146. Beveled teeth 144 and lower lip 142 adorn the upper andlower region of the chip bracket 65, respectively. Lower chip mounts 137remain in the same respective regions, along the lower portion of thechip bracket 65. Fin latches 140 extrude from the surface of the chipbracket 65.

With reference to FIG. 14 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the first thermally conductive shell 50 is shown with LEDchips 55, 57 locked into place. Electrical connectors 133, 134, 135 ofthe first chip 55 interact with receiving apertures 85, 90, 92.Similarly, electrical connectors 133, 134, 135 of the second chip 57interact with receiving apertures 87, 94, 96. The interaction betweenthe electrical connectors and the receiving apertures align therectangular slots 80 with the LED lights 120 from the first and secondLED chip. The face of the LED chips 55, 57 come into direct contact withthe thermally conductive shell 50. The heat emitted from the face of theLED chips 55, 57 is transferred onto the thermally conductive shell 50where it is dissipated with the aid of natural air flow. The interactionbetween the second shell 52 and LED chips 59 and 61 (not shown) isidentical to the interaction described above for first thermallyconductive shell 50.

With reference to FIG. 14a and according to another embodiment of thepresent invention, the first thermally conductive shell 50 is shown withthe LED chips 55, and 57 set into place. The first thermally conductiveshell 50 rests on the LED chips 55 and 57. Locking the LED chips intoplace requires other components of the LED module (not shown), and willbe described in greater detail in subsequent sections. Cut outs on thefirst thermally conductive shell 50 align with the electrical connectors133 and 135 in order to ensure proper positioning of the LED chips 55and 57 within the first thermally conductive shell 50. Once positioned,the first thermally conductive shell 50 covers only the upper regions ofthe LED chips 55 and 57. The thermal conducting line 113 of firstthermally conductive shell 50 is positioned right above the LED lights120 of the LED chips 55 and 57. As such the thermal conducting line 113is positioned where heat is most dense, where it can conduct the heatemanating from LED lights 120. Heat is conducted efficiently from theLED chips 55 and 57 onto the thermal conducting line 113, where it isdiffused throughout the surface of the thermally conductive shell 50,and subsequently dissipated by air flow from the fins 114. In addition,majority of LED chips 55 and 57 upper region is exposed as rectangularslots 112 perforate the first thermally conductive shell 50.

With reference to FIG. 15 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the first and second LED chips 55, 57 are shown with chipbracket 65 secured into place. The first and second LED chips 55, 57mount onto the chip bracket 65 and lock into place. The first LED chip55 is secured onto the chip bracket 65 by positioning it between theupper chip mounts 136. Once positioned, the first LED chip 55 isfastened onto the chip bracket 65 by coupling the lower chip mounts 137through the first and second securing members 130, 132. Mounting of thesecond LED chip 57 onto the chip bracket 65 works in a similar fashion.The second LED chip 57 is fastened onto the chip bracket 65 bypositioning between the upper chip mounts 136. The positioned second LEDchip 57 is fastened onto the chip bracket 65 by coupling the lower chipmounts 137 through the first and second securing members 130, 132. Theinteraction between chip bracket 65 and LED chips 59, 61 is identical tothe interaction described above. The back of the LED chips 55 and 57only come into contact with the chip bracket 65 at the periphery. Inanother embodiment of the present invention where the chip bracket 65 isconstructed as a solid or woven thermal conductive material, the entireback surface area of the metal core LED chips 55 and 57 comes intocontact with the chip bracket 65. The metal core LED chips 55 and 57have a decreased thermal resistance to heat transfer at the back to theboard. The thermally conductive chip bracket 65 would conduct heatquickly from the surface of the metal core LED chips 55 and 57.

With reference to FIGS. 15a and 15b and according to another embodimentof the present invention, the first and second LED chips 55, 57 areshown secured onto chip bracket 65. The first and second LED chips 55and 57 are positioned on to the center wall 63 of chip bracket 65. EachLED chip is placed between the lower lip 142 and the fin latches 140.The first and second LED chips 55 and 57 are fastened onto the chipbracket 65 by coupling the lower chip mounts 137 through the first andsecond securing members 130, 132 of each LED chip.

With specific reference to FIG. 15b , the interior view of first andsecond LED chips 55, 57 secured onto the chip bracket 65 is shown ingreater detail. The large openings 150 on the center wall 63 permitsheat dissipation from the back for the first and second LED chips 55,57. Heat dissipation from the back of the LED chip is essential in LEDchip utilization. The heat dissipated from the back of the LED chips isinitially localized within the gap 71 of the chip bracket 65. Verticalairflow expels the dissipated heat from the gap 71 allowing the LEDchips to function at lower temperatures.

With reference to FIG. 16 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the first thermally conductive shell 50 is shown interactingwith chip bracket 65. The chip bracket 65 fits within the cavity of thefirst thermally conductive shell 50. As shown in FIG. 16a , the point ofcontact between the first thermally conductive shell 50 and the chipbracket 65 occurs at the outer edges. The chip bracket 65 is situatedwhere the position braces 160, 161 rest upon the back of the first andsecond beveled protrusions 72, 76. With specific reference to FIG. 16b ,latch members 162, 164 insert into the upper and lower beveled apertures77, 78 thereby securing the chip bracket 65 within the cavity of thefirst thermally conductive shell 50. The interaction between chipbracket 65 and second shell 52 (not shown) is identical to theinteraction described above.

With reference to FIGS. 17 and 17 a and according to another embodimentof the present invention, the first and second thermally conductiveshells 50 and 52 are shown connected to the chip bracket 65. The chipbracket 65 connects with the first and second thermally conductiveshells 50 and 52, thereby locking each shell into the correct position.The first and second thermally conductive shells 50 and 52 arepositioned onto the chip bracket 65 by resting the beveled teeth 144within the rectangular slots 112. The fin latches 140 latch onto therespective fins 114, thereby locking the first and second thermallyconductive shell 50 and 52 onto the chip bracket 65. A chip board cavity73 is maintained between the chip bracket 65 and the first and secondthermally conductive shells 50 and 52, respectively. Gap 71 ismaintained, allowing air to flow vertically through the center of chipbracket 65. The thermal conducting line 113 makes contact with the LEDChip (not shown) and conducts heat from the face of the LED chip to thefins 114. Vertical convective air flow cools the fins, therebydissipating heat from the face of LED chip (not shown).

With specific reference to FIG. 17a , a profile view of the first andsecond thermally conductive shells 50 and 52 interacting with the chipbracket 65 is shown. The width of gap 71 is dependent on strut 146. Thefirst and second thermally conductive shells 50 and 52 maintain minimalcontact with the chip bracket 65. The points of contact between thefirst and second thermally conductive shells 50, 52 and the chip bracket65 occur at the beveled teeth 144 and the fin latches 140. As a result,a chip board cavity 73 is produced between the chip bracket 65 and therespective first and second shells.

With reference to FIG. 18 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the complete LED module 35 is shown in its closedconfirmation. In another embodiment of the present invention, theperforated composition of the first and second thermally conductiveshell 50 and 52 permits air to flow through the LED module 35. Airenters the LED module 35 and dissipates the heat from the chip bracket65 (not shown) and from the back surface of the LED boards 55, 57, 59(not shown) and 61 (not shown). Any heat expelled from the face of theLED chips 55 and 57 is conducted to the thermally conductive shell 50and is subsequently dissipated by natural air flow. Dissipation of heatcan be enhanced with the addition of fins (not shown) to the upperregion of thermally conductive shell 50. The height of the fins (notshown) varies from a minimum of 1 mm to a maximum of 75 mm. Fins (notshown) increase the surface area of the thermally conductive shell 50thereby increasing the heat dissipation rate of natural air flow.Similar heat dissipation management occurs with LED chips 59 and 61 (notshown), and shell 52, located on the other side of the LED module 35.

With reference to FIGS. 18a and 18b and according to another embodimentof the present invention, the complete LED module 35 is shown. Underthis embodiment, high intensity LED chips are employed, and as such heatdissipation is a crucial aspect of the LED module 35. The lower portionof the first and second LED chips 55 and 57 are exposed, as only theupper portion is fastened by thermally conductive shell 50. This permitsair flow to dissipate heat from the face of the first and second LEDchips 55 and 57. Heat is dissipated from the face of the LED chips 55and 57 by the fins 114. Heat is conducted from the surface of the shellthrough the thermal conducting line 113, which makes contact with theLED chips 55 and 57. The conducting line 113 conducts the heat from theface of the LED chips 55 and 57 to the fins 114. The fins 114, having anincreased surface area expel the heat which dissipates from the LEDmodule 35 by natural air flow. Similar heat dissipation managementoccurs with LED chips 59 and 61 (not shown), and shell 52, located onthe other side of the LED module 35.

With specific reference to FIG. 18b , a profile view of the LED module35 is shown. Heat dissipated from the back of opposing LED chips islocalized within gap 71. In one embodiment of the present invention, thethermally dissipating means defined as the width of gap 71 is dependenton the density and heat emission of the LED chip employed within the LEDmodule 35. LED chips with greater density and heat emission will requirea larger gap 71. A larger width within gap 71 prohibits interaction ofheat dissipated from opposing LED chips, chips 55 and 59. The width ofthe gap 71 is determined by the strut 146 and the link 148 (not shown).The length of the strut 146 and the link 148 (not shown) can be variedto alter the gap 71 width from a minimum of 2 mm to a maximum of 75 mm.The resultant width, Δ gap, provides efficient heat dissipation based onthe heat parameters of the LED module 35.

2. Lamp Assembly

With reference to FIG. 19 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the lamp assembly unit 30 is described in greater detail.FIG. 19 is comprised of an exploded view of the lamp assembly unit 30.The lamp assembly unit 30 consists of first and second reflectors 40,42, first and second, module caps 45, 47, and a LED module 35. The firstand second reflectors 40, 42 are axially mirrored and interpose the LEDmodule 35. First and second module caps 45, 47 link all the componentstogether and are positioned at the axial ends of the LED module 35.

With reference to FIG. 19a and according to another embodiment of thepresent invention, the lamp assembly unit 30 is described greaterdetail. FIG. 19a is comprised of an exploded view of the lamp assemblyunit 30. The lamp assembly unit 30 consists of first and secondreflectors 40, 42, first and second, module caps 45, 47, and a LEDmodule 35.

With reference to FIG. 20 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the first module cap 45 is shown in greater detail. The firstmodule cap 45 is comprised of a first and second module cap arms 174,176 attached to the central rectangular body 178. The first and secondcompression cavities 170, 172 are interposed between the module cap arms174, 176 (respectively) and the Central Body 178. The first and secondmodule cap Arms 174, 176 contain a hook clamp protrusions 180, 182,Ribbed Troughs 185, 187, and shoulders 190, 192, respectively. Centralbody 178 contains a central chip bracket clasp 195, first and secondshell latches 200, 202 and is outlined by a Raised Rim 205. Thecomposition of the second cap module (not shown) is identical to the onedescribed above.

With reference to FIG. 21 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the first module cap 45 is shown at a slight angle toillustrate key features. The upper surface of the first module cap 45 istopped by the extension cover protruding outward from the face 198. Thecentral body 178 contains protruding chip bracket clasp 195 andprotruding shell latches 200, 202. The external surface of the first andsecond ribbed troughs 185, 187 and shoulders 190, 192 coincide with theprotruding extension and as such protrude from the surface of the modulecap 45. The chip bracket clasp 195 also protrudes from the surface ofthe first cap module 45. In another embodiment of the present invention,FIG. 21a , the module cap 45 is shown at a slight angle to illustratekey features. The first and second shoulder 190, 192 project from theextension cover. First and second platform shoulders 181, 183 protrudefrom the first and second module cap arms 174, 176, respectively. Firstand second reflector latch 188, 189 are located on the lower region ofthe first and second module cap arms 174, 176, respectively. In yetanother embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 21b , the roundedmodule cap 45 is shown. In this embodiment the cap module 45 contains anextended upper region. Additionally, the first and second module caparms 174 (not shown) and 176 (not shown) are fixed on the cap module 45,and as such do not flex when pressure is applied.

With reference to FIGS. 22 and 23 and according to one embodiment of thepresent invention, the first reflector 40 is shown in greater detail.The first reflector 40 is comprised of an arch with a curved radius ofθ, and a fin 215. The composition of the second reflector 42 (not shown)is identical to the one described above. In another embodiment of thepresent invention, FIG. 22a and FIG. 23a , the reflector 40 is shown ingreater detail. The segmented reflector 40 is comprised of an arch witha radius of θ with an angled fin 215. The radius θ will be dependent onthe size of the reflector being used in a lighting fixture of thepresent invention and as would be known by a worker skilled in therelevant art. The first and second mounting slit 216, 217 adorn thelower extremity of the first reflector 40. The composition of the secondreflector 42 (not shown) is identical to the once described above.

With reference to FIGS. 24 and 25 and according to one embodiment of thepresent invention, the first module cap 45 is shown to interact with thefirst reflector 40. The first reflector 40 latches into the first modulecap 45 by penetrating the ribbed trough 187. With further reference toFIG. 25, the reflector 40 links into the ribbed trough 187 therebyfastening the reflector 40 to the module cap 45. Continued movement ofthe first reflector 40 through the ribbed trough 187 is prohibited bythe interaction of the reflector fin 215 and the first module capshoulder 192. The interaction between the first module cap and thesecond reflector is identical to the interaction described above. Theinteraction between the second module cap with the first and secondreflectors is identical as described above.

With reference to FIGS. 24a and 25a and according to another embodimentof the present invention, the first module cap 45 is shown interactingwith the first reflector 40. The reflector engages the module cap bypenetrating the ribbed trough 187. The reflector is locked into positionwhen the module cap reflector latch 183 interacts with the reflectormounting slit 217. With further reference to FIG. 25a , the secondshoulder 192 interacts with the angled fin 215 of reflector 40 toprohibit lateral movement. The interaction between the first module cap45 and the second reflector is identical to the interaction describedabove. The interaction between the second module cap and the first andsecond reflectors is identical as described above.

With reference to FIG. 26 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the first module cap 45 is shown to interact with a LEDmodule's shell 54 comprised of first and second thermally conductiveshells 50, 52. Attachment of the LED module 35 to first and secondmodule caps 45 is essential to the formation of the lamp assembly unit30. The first and second thermally conductive shells 50, 52 set into thefirst module cap's 45 by fitting within the raised rim 205. Uponsetting, the first module cap 45 latches onto the first thermallyconductive shell 50. The latching mechanism is comprised of the firstmodule cap 45 shell latch 200 and the first thermally conductive shell50 second receiving aperture 87.

With reference to FIG. 26a and according to one embodiment of thepresent invention, the second shell 52 is similarly linked. The secondshell 52 latches on to module cap 45 through the interaction of thesecond receiving aperture 85 and the second shell latch 202. The raisedrim 205 of first module cap 45 fits tightly around the shell's beveledprotrusion 74 and the beveled protrusion 70, thereby stabilizing thestructure and limiting wobble. The interaction between the second modulecap 47 and the first and second thermally conductive shells 50, 52 isidentical to the interaction described above.

With reference to FIG. 27 and according to another embodiment of thepresent invention, the first module cap 45 is shown to interact with aLED module's shell 54 comprised of first and second thermally conductiveshells 50, 52. The first and second thermally conductive shells 50, 52set into the first module cap's 45 by fitting within the upper region ofthe raised rim 205. Upon setting, the first module cap 45 latches ontothe second shell 52. The latching is reversed on the second module cap47. The second module cap 47 latches onto the first thermally conductiveshell 50. To form a solid structure the first and second module cap 45and 47 need to latch onto the second and first thermally conductiveshell 52 and 50, respectively.

With reference to FIG. 28 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the chip bracket 65 is shown to interact with the firstmodule cap 45. LED module stability is further enhanced by theinteraction of the chip bracket 65 with the module cap 45. As clearlyshown in FIG. 29, the module cap chip bracket clasp 195 links directlyto the chip bracket's 65 connecting member 172. The interaction betweenthe chip bracket 65 and second module cap 47 is identical to theinteraction described above.

With reference to FIG. 30 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the chip bracket 65 is shown to interact with the firstmodule cap 45 while encased within the LED module shell 54. Thestabilizing effect of linking the module cap 45 with the chip bracket 65is realized only when the chip bracket 65 is encased by the module shell54. The first and second thermally conductive shells 50, 52, andprotrusions 72, 76 permit the chip bracket Clasp 195 to penetrate theLED module shell 54 and interact with the chip bracket 65 and Connectingmember not shown.

With reference to FIGS. 31 and 31 a and according to one embodiment ofthe present invention, alternate views of a fully assembled lampassembly unit 30 are shown. The LED module 35 along with the first andsecond reflectors 40 and 42 are fastened into the lamp assembly unit 30by the first and second cap modules 45 and 47.

With reference to FIGS. 32 and 32 a and according to another embodimentof the present invention, alternative views of a fully assembled lampassembly unit 30 are shown. The LED module 35 along with the first andsecond reflectors 40 and 42 are fastened into the lamp assembly unit 30by the first and second cap modules 45, and 47.

3. Light Fixture

With reference to FIG. 33 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the Light Fixture 5 is described in greater detail. The LightFixture 5 is comprised of first and second end plates 10, 12, first andsecond driver channel (not shown) and a hollow bridge 15 thatcompartmentalize lamp assembly unit 30 to contain first and secondopenings 25, 27. Parallel lamp assembly unit 30 can be fitted intocompartmentalized first or second openings 25, 27.

With reference to FIG. 33a and according to another embodiment of thepresent invention, the LED lighting fixture 5 is shown in greaterdetail. The light fixture is housed within the enclosure 2. Theenclosure 2 covers the upper region of the light fixture. The first andsecond driver channel 20, 22, the first and second end plates 10, 12,and the hollow bridge 15 form the structural elements of the enclosure2. The first and second openings 25, 27 are capable of housing multipleparallel lamp assembly units 30. Parallel lamp assembly units 30 can befitted in parallel within the first and second openings 25, 27. Forillustrative purposes, FIG. 33a describes the first and second opening25, 27 to contain three lamp assembly units 30. A worker skilled in therelevant art would appreciate the various combinations of lamp assemblyunit 30 that can be fitted into the first and second opening. Dependingon user preference, the first and second opening 25, 27 can bemanufactured to hold an indefinite amount of lamp assembly units 30. Inaddition, depending on user preference, the LED lighting system can bemanufactured to contain a single opening 27, or in the alternativecontain multiple openings.

With reference to FIG. 33b and according to another embodiment of thepresent invention, an aerial view of the lighting fixture 5 is shown ingreater detail. The enclosure 2 houses the lighting system. The firstand second driver channel 20, 22, and the first and second end plates10, 12, are integrated into the enclosure 2. A central hole withinenclosure 2 displays the transformer 17, which is enclosed within thehollow bridge 15 (not shown). In another embodiment of the presentinvention, enclosure 2 is flat panel, lacking the first and seconddriver channel 20, 22, and the first and second end plates 10, 12. Theenclosure 2 contains air ventilation slots, or perforations that allowconvective air to flow.

With reference to FIG. 33c and according to another embodiment of thepresent invention, an aerial view of the lighting fixture 5 lacking theenclosure is shown in greater detail. The light fixture 5 is comprisedof LED drivers 3, lamp assembly units 30, and a transformer 17. Anelectrical current is passed from an electrical source (not shown) tothe transformer 17 and then passed to the LED driver 3 in order tomodulate the electrical input that is received by the lamp assemblyunits 30. Single LED driver 3 corresponds to a single lamp assembly unit30 within the lighting fixture 5. A worker skilled in the relevant artwould appreciate the various combinations of LED drivers 3 andtransformers 17 that can effectively power the lamp assembly units 30within the lighting fixture 5. The number of lamp assembly units 30 canvary depending on user specifications. A worker skilled in the relevantart would appreciate that the various combinations of lamp assembly unit30 fitted into the first and second opening 25, 27 would alter thenumber of LED drivers 3.

With reference to FIG. 33d and according to another embodiment of thepresent invention, the cosmetic panel is 1 shown in greater detail. Thecosmetic panel 1 mounts to the visible portion of the lighting fixture5. The cosmetic panel contains 2 holes which correspond to the first andsecond opening 25, 27 of the lighting fixture 5 (not shown).

With reference to FIGS. 34 and 35 and according to one embodiment of thepresent invention, the rotation plate 219 is shown in greater detail.The rotation plate 219 links the Lamp Assembly Unit 30 to the LightFixture 5. The rotation plate 219 is comprised of a flat surface withfirst and second arm extension 220, 222. Each Arm extension contains afastening chamber 225, 227, respectively. The flat region of therotation plate 219 contains two centrally located bores, the pivot point235, and the rotation limiter bore 240. The pivot lock 230 extends fromthe face of the rotation plate 219. In another embodiment of the presentinvention, FIG. 35a , the rotation plate is shown in greater detail. Therotation plate 219 rotates around the pivot axle 236.

With reference to FIGS. 36 and 37 and according to one embodiment of thepresent invention, the rotation plate 219 is shown interacting with thefirst module cap 45. The first module cap 45 is secured into therotation plate 219 by inserting the first and second Hook Clamps 180,182 into the first and second Fastening Chambers 227, 225. The firstmodule cap 45 is fitted into the rotation plate 219 by flexing the firstand second module cap Arms 174, 176 through the compression gaps of thefirst and second compression cavity 170, 172. The interaction betweenthe rotation plate 219 and the second module cap 47 is not shown for itsinteraction is identical to the interaction described above. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, FIG. 36a and FIG. 37a , therotation plate 219 interacting with the first module cap 45 is shown ingreater detail. The first and second platform shoulder 181, 183 furtherstabilize the interaction between the rotation plate 219 and the firstmodule cap 45.

With reference to FIGS. 38 and 39 and according to one embodiment of thepresent invention, the rotation plate 219 is shown with the rotationmechanism attached. The Axle 250 and the rotation Limiter Bolt 245 areinserted into the rotation plate through the Pivot Point 235 androtation Limiter Bore 240, respectively. The lever 260 (shown in clear)is attached to both the Axle 250 and the rotation Limiter Bolt 245.

With reference to FIG. 40 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the first end plate 12 is shown in greater detail. The firstend plate 12 is comprised of a flat surface and beveled edges. The flatportion of the first end plate 12 contains an aligned Axle Bore Chamber270 and Curved Slot 265 set. The Axle Bore Chamber 270 and Curved Slot265 sets are repeated throughout the first end plate 12. A workerskilled in the relevant art would appreciate that the repeated patternwill vary depending on the length of the end plate 12. The upper andlower driver channel Slits 275, 277 are positioned on the outer edges ofthe first end plate 12.

With reference to FIGS. 41 and 42 and according to one embodiment of thepresent invention, the first end plate 12 is shown interacting with therotation plate 219 through the rotation mechanism. The lever 260 isposition as to align with the Curved Slot 265 and the Axle Bore Chamber270 on the back end of the first end plate 12. The lever 260 is notaffixed to the first end plate 12 but is bolted to rotation plate 219.The Axle 250 and the rotation Limiter Bolt 245 pass through the firstend plate 12 and link the lever 260 with the rotation plate 219. Therebythe lever 260 and the attached rotation plate 219 are free to rotatearound the Axle 250 axis. The range of rotation is limited by therotation Limiter Bolt's 245 degree of travel within the Curved Slot 265.The Pivot Lock 230 acts as a harness to lock the rotation plate 219 inthe horizontal position. The locking mechanism of the Pivot Lock 230 canbe seen in FIGS. 42 and 43 through the use of a bolt and nut positionedthrough the end plate 12 and plate 219. As clearly shown in FIG. 43, theFriction Gasket 255 is sandwiched between the first end plate 12 and therotation plate 219 (shown in clear).

With reference to FIG. 44 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the driver channel 20 is shown in greater detail. The driverchannel 20 is a three sided box with a Central Duct 280, and securinglatches on the outer edges. A worker skilled in the relevant art wouldappreciate the variations in the length of the driver channel 20. Adriver channel length can vary based on the amount of lamp assemblyunits required by the end user.

With reference to FIGS. 45 and 46 and according to one embodiment of thepresent invention, the driver channel 20 is shown to interact with thefirst end plate 10. The driver channel 20 attaches to the end of thefirst end plate 10 at a 90 degree angle. The driver channel 20 is lockedinto place through the interaction of the Securing Latches 285 with theupper and lower driver channel Slits 275, 277. A worker skilled in therelevant art would appreciate the various alternative locking mechanismsthat can be employed attach the driver channel 20 to the first end plate10. The interaction between the driver channel 20 and the second endplate 12 is identical to the interaction described above. As is theinteraction between the second driver channel 22 with the first andsecond end plate 10, 12.

With reference to FIGS. 47 and 48 and according to one embodiment of thepresent invention, the hollow bridge 15 is shown in greater detail. Thehollow bridge 15 is a three sided enclosure that encapsulates the LightFixture Transformer 17. The overall shape of the hollow bridge 15 isdependent on: i) the size and shape of the Transformer 17 employed; andii) the length of the first and second end plate 10, 12 (not shown). Thearea within hollow bridge 15 is encapsulated with the addition of hollowbridge Lid 290. A worker skilled in the relevant art would appreciatethe various alternative fastening mechanisms that can be employed toenclose the Transformer 17 within the hollow bridge 15.

With reference to FIG. 49 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the driver channel 20 is shown interacting with the hollowbridge 15. The hollow bridge 15 sets on to the Central Duct 280 regionof the driver channel 20 forming a truss. The hollow bridge 15 overhangrests on top of the driver channel 20, while the side protrusions braceagainst the wall of the driver channel. A worker skilled in the relevantart would appreciate the various alternative fastening mechanisms thatcan be employed to set the hollow bridge 15 onto the driver channel 20.

With reference to FIG. 50 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the rotation plate 219 is shown interacting with the hollowbridge 15. The rotation plate 219 is bolted onto the hollow bridgethrough the pivot point 235. The bolt gives the rotation plate 219 theability to rotate freely on its axis. A worker skilled in the relevantart would appreciate the various alternative mounting mechanisms thatcan be employed to attach the rotation plate 219 onto the hollow bridge15. The rotation plate 219 is positioned along the hollow bridge 15 in amanner that when attached within the Light Fixture 5 the rotation plate219 will align horizontally and vertically with the correspondingrotation plate 219 on either first or second end plate (not shown).

With Reference to FIG. 51 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention, the complete High Bay Light Fixture is shown. The High BayLight Fixture 5 is primarily comprised of first and second end plates10, 12, a hollow bridge 15 containing the transformer 17, first andsecond driver channel 20, 22 (not shown), first and second opening 25,27 each capable of housing multiple parallel lamp assembly units 30.Transformer 17 situated within the bridge 15 relays electrical input toindividual lamp assembly units 30 attached within the High Bay LightFixture 5.

4. Method for Controlling Light Intensity

With reference to FIGS. 52 and 53, a method according to one embodimentof the present invention is described as follows:

-   -   With reference to step 10, the start of the day is initiated        either by a user selected time, or by a detection of an        occupant.    -   With reference to step 20, the system is activated.    -   With reference to step 30, the activated system runs a        diagnostic to ensure that power is present, and the lights are        functioning appropriately.    -   With reference to step 40, the diagnostic procedure has        identified an error. The error can arise from a number of        potential problems. A worker skilled in the relevant art would        be able to identify the various issues that that can cause the        system to fail.    -   With reference to step 50, the system alerts the occupier of the        error with color sequence or a flashing sequence through the        light. A worker skilled in the relevant art would appreciate the        various methods and techniques potentially implemented to alert        the occupant of an error.    -   With reference to step 60, the system attempts to resolve the        issue by turning the initial power off and restarting the system        from step 20. The system will continually cycle steps 20 through        60 until the error is fixed by the system or an individual.        Alternatively, the system may shut down and give a failed signal        after a set number of cycles.    -   With reference to step 70, the diagnostic procedure has not        identified an error.    -   With reference to step 80, the lights are turned on. The lights        are turned on to the user selected lowest standby intensity        input.    -   With reference to step 90, the system scans for user occupancy.        In one embodiment of the invention, the system detects occupancy        through infrared motion sensor. In another embodiment of the        invention, the system detects occupancy through ultrasonic        sensors, alone or in combination with infrared sensors. A worker        skilled in the relevant art would appreciate the various        techniques and sensors that can be implemented to detect        occupancy.    -   With reference to step 100, no occupancy is detected.    -   With reference to step 110, the system determines whether the        current time is past the user selected end of day.    -   With reference to step 120, the system has determined that the        current time is past the user selected end of day. Once the        determination has been made, the cycle is pushed to step 540,        end of day settings. The system will then proceed with end of        day sequence.    -   With reference to step 130, the system has determined that the        current time is earlier than the user selected end of day. Once        the determination has been made, the system is returned to step        80, the lowest standby intensity until an occupant is detected.    -   With reference to step 140, the system has detected an occupant.    -   With reference to step 150, detection of an occupant increases        light intensity to user selected maximum intensity level.    -   With reference to step 160, timer 1 is initiated. In one        embodiment, timer 1 is defined as the initiating timer. The        detection of an occupant initiates timer 1. The duration of        timer 1 is selected by the user. Timer 1 continues to run as the        system scans for continued occupancy.    -   With reference to step 170, the system continues to scan for        repeated occupancy.    -   With reference to step 180, an occupant is detected before        expiry of timer 1. The lights are maintained at user selected        maximum intensity, and timer 1 will reset. Timer 1 will reset        every instance an occupant is detected.    -   With reference to step 190, no occupant is detected before        expiry of timer 1.    -   With reference to step 200, the expiry of timer 1 initiates        timer 2.    -   With reference to step 210, the light intensity is decreased to        user selected adaptable standby intensity level.    -   With reference to step 220, the system scans for occupancy.    -   With reference to step 230, an occupant is detected.    -   With reference to step 240, the system makes a determination        whether the previous occupancy traffic parameter was at user        selected maximum intensity.    -   With reference to step 250, the system has made a determination        that the previous occupancy traffic parameter was not at user        selected maximum intensity.    -   With reference to step 260 and on determination at step 250, the        occupancy traffic parameter is incrementally increased in the        next cycle. The increase in traffic parameter results in the        increase in subsequent adaptable standby intensity. In the        subsequent cycle, the system will also incrementally increase        the duration of timers 1, 2, and 3. In addition, the system will        increase the fade rate between light intensity changes. The        system cycles back to step 150 and initiates maximum light        intensity.    -   With reference to step 270, the system has made a determination        that the previous occupancy traffic parameter was at user        selected maximum intensity.    -   With reference to step 280, the subsequent occupancy traffic        parameters will be maintained at user selected maximum        intensity. As a result, the adaptable standby intensity duration        of timer 1, 2, and 3, and fade rate speed will remain at maximum        intensity. The system cycles back to step 150 and initiates        maximum light intensity.    -   With reference to step 290, no occupant is detected before        expiry of timer 2.    -   With reference to step 300, the expiry of timer 2 initiates        timer 3.    -   With reference to step 310, the light intensity is decreased to        user selected lowest standby intensity level.    -   With reference to step 320, they system scans for occupancy.    -   With reference to step 330, an occupant is detected.    -   With reference to step 340, the system makes a determination        whether the previous occupancy traffic parameter was at user        selected minimum intensity.    -   With reference to step 350, the system has made a determination        that the previous occupancy traffic parameter was not at user        selected minimum intensity.    -   With reference to step 360, the occupancy traffic parameter is        incrementally decreased in the next cycle. The decrease in        traffic parameter results in the decrease in subsequent        adaptable standby intensity. In the subsequent cycle, the system        will also incrementally decrease the duration of timers 1, 2,        and 3. In addition, the system will decrease the fade rate        between light intensity changes. The system cycles back to step        150 and initiates maximum light intensity.    -   With reference to step 370, the system has made a determination        that the previous occupancy traffic parameter was at user        selected minimum intensity.    -   With reference to step 380, the subsequent occupancy traffic        parameters will be maintained at user selected minimum        intensity. As a result, the adaptable standby intensity duration        of timer 1, 2, and 3, and fade rate speed will remain at minimum        intensity. The system cycles back to step 150 and initiates        maximum light intensity.    -   With reference to step 390, no occupant is detected before        expiry of timer 3.    -   With reference to step 400, timer 3 expires.    -   With reference to step 410, the system makes a determination        based on parameters set by end user.    -   With reference to step 420, the end user has requested that the        lights are to be turned off during work hours.    -   With reference to step 430, the lights are turned off.    -   With reference to step 440, they system scans for occupancy.    -   With reference to step 450, an occupant is detected. Upon        detection of occupant at step 450, the system cycles back to        step 340. The system then repeats all steps described above        after step 340.    -   With reference to step 460, no occupant is detected.    -   With reference to step 470, a determination is made regarding        user selected end of day parameter.    -   With reference to step 480, determination of end of day pushes        the system to end of day sequence.    -   With reference to step 490, determination of user selected        current work period cycles the system back to step 440, scanning        for occupancy.    -   With reference to step 500, the end user has requested that the        lights are to be kept on during work hours.    -   With reference to step 510, a determination is made regarding        user selected end of day parameter.    -   With reference to step 520, determination of user selected        current work period cycles the system back to step 300,        resetting timer 3. The system then repeats all the steps        described above after step 300.    -   With reference to step 530, determination of end of day pushes        the cycle to end of day sequence.    -   With reference to step 540, user selected end of day has been        reached.    -   With reference to step 550, the lights are turned off. User may        select parameters that will keep certain or all lights        maintained at emergency level intensity.    -   With reference to step 560, the system scans for occupancy.    -   With reference to step 570, no occupant is detected. The system        cycles back to step 550, maintaining the lights off and        continued scanning for occupancy.    -   With reference to step 580, an occupant is detected.    -   With reference to step 590, detection of occupant after end of        day parameter cycles the system back to step 150, powering the        lights to maximum intensity. The after-hours cycle is not        adaptable, it is locked to the intensity level of the last        working hours cycle.

With reference to FIG. 54, the cycling of traffic parameters accordingto a method of the present invention is shown in greater detail. Thesystem can detect high and low traffic areas and adjust the lightintensity accordingly. Traffic flow is not static, it fluctuates and assuch the lighting system needs to adapt to the change and alter lightintensities. One embodiment according to a method of the presentinvention alters the light intensity and duration through 10 userselected increments. A worker skilled in the relevant art wouldappreciate the variations that can be used to modify the increments sizeor use of algorithms to modify incremental changes.

Upon initiation of the system the end user selects a user selectedadaptable standby parameter. The standby parameter affects lightintensities and light durations. For illustrative purposes, the selectedstandby for both duration and intensity is set at level 5. The user canvary the standby level to any one of the 10 preset levels and can chooseintensity and duration independently. Factory settings attempt tominimize the nuisance of incessant light fluctuation by setting thestandby parameter at level 10, the maximum traffic rate. Thereby, uponinstallation and initial traffic sampling period, the light intensityobserved by the end user in high traffic areas is continuous. The lightintensity in low traffic areas will fluctuate, but because of the lowtraffic rate the fluctuation will affect few users.

The end user also selects the maximum and minimum intensity levels whichwill correspond to high and low traffic areas, respectively. The lowtraffic level not only corresponds to the minimum adaptable intensitybut also applies to the lowest standby intensity at step 310. Similarly,high traffic level corresponds to maximum adaptable standby intensityand operating intensity upon detection of occupant at step 150.

The system operates on a continuous cycle that modifies the userselected standby parameter incrementally upon the commencement of thenext cycle. The incremental change occurs upon detection of an occupant,which is also responsible for the initiation of a new cycle. Dependingon the point in the cycle that an occupant is detected affects theincremental change in the adaptable standby parameter. A change in thestandby parameter will affect: the adaptable standby intensity; theduration of light at timers 1, 2, and 3; and the fade rate. A movetowards high traffic will increase the light intensity at adaptablestandby, increase duration of light at timers 1, 2, and 3, and increasethe fade rate. A move towards low traffic will decrease the lightintensity at adaptable standby, decrease the duration of light at timers1, 2, and 3, and decrease the fade rate.

Incremental increase in the standby parameter occurs upon the detectionof an occupant within timer 2, at step 230. The standby parameter willmove from level 5, to level 6 upon the commencement of cycle 2. In thenext cycle, cycle 2, occupant detection within timer 2, at step 230 willincrease the standby parameter once again from its current position, atlevel 6, to level 7 in the next cycle. If at any point the maximum hightraffic parameter is reached and an occupant is detected within timer 2,the standby level will stay at position 10 upon the commencement of thenext cycle.

Similarly, the decrease in the standby parameter occurs upon thedetection of an occupant at any point after the commencement of timer 3at either step 330 or 450. The standby parameter will move from level 5,to level 4 upon the commencement of cycle 2. In the next cycle, cycle 2,occupant detection after the commencement of timer 3 at either step 330or 450 will decrease the standby parameter once again from its currentposition, at level 4, to level 3 in the next cycle. If at any point theminimum low traffic parameter is reached and an occupant is detectedafter the commencement of timer 3, the standby level will stay atposition 1 upon the commencement of the next cycle.

A worker skilled in the relevant art can appreciate that the startinguser selected standby intensity can be set at any increment ranging from0, the lowest intensity, to 10, the highest intensity. Factory settingsattempt to minimize the nuisance of incessant light fluctuation bysetting the standby adaptable intensity level at maximum high trafficrate. Thereby, upon installation and initial traffic sampling period,the light intensity observed by the end user in high traffic areas ismaintained. While in low traffic areas the light intensity fluctuates,but because of the low traffic rate it affects few users and maximumpower is saved.

A light controller detects the surrounding environment in a number ofways employing a number of mechanisms. Sensors embedded in the lightcontroller are used in operation of the method program to sample thesurround environment and adjust the light intensity accordingly. Apassive infrared sensor (PIR) is employed to detect the presence of anoccupant within the surrounding area. PIR sensor detects occupancythrough body heat and the resultant abrupt change in surroundingtemperature. In addition, a daylight sensor is employed in conjunctionwith the passive infrared sensor. The daylight sensor detects theilluminance of the surrounding area in order to maintain constantquantity of illumination. The intensity of the LED lighting isconstantly adjusted to reflect the incoming natural luminous flux. Aworker skilled in the relevant art would appreciate the various methods(OR devices) that can be employed to detect occupancy and sense thesurrounding area.

Programming of the lighting system is executed through the utilizationof commonly used chip boards. The chip boards serve two functions: 1.Cycling of the lighting system through the method program; 2. Analyzingthe information obtained by the sensors and adjusting the method programincrementally upon the commencement of the next cycle. The chip boardcan be mounted as a single unit, or in conjunction with multiple chipboards. Chip board location can be within the sensor system or in anylocation along the light box that protects the chips from the elementsand allows them to perform their function.

Programming the chip boards with the user selected adaptable standbyparameter is accomplished through a remote control or through a USBcable (standard, mini or micro). The user programs the remote controlwith the selected adaptable standby parameter. Programming can beaccomplished through a computer upload, or through manual input on theremote. A worker skilled in the relevant art would appreciate thevarious methods of downloading a cycle program onto a remote. The userselects the light boxes that will be programmed by pointing the remotecontrol towards the light box. The information is relayed to the chipboards located within light box units by an infrared signal transmittedthrough the PIR. A worker skilled in the relevant art would appreciatethe various methods for transferring data from the remote to the lightbox chip board.

5. Universal Mounting Bracket

With reference to FIG. 55 and according to one embodiment of the presentinvention the Unimo™ universal mounting bracket 299 is shown. The Unimo™universal mounting bracket 299 is primarily comprised of a mountingplate 300, a fixture plate 325, a linker hinge 345, a tool-lessadjustable cable gripper 350, and an aircraft cable 360.

With reference to FIG. 56, the mounting plate 300 is shown in greaterdetail. The upper edge of the mounting plate 300 extends out to form aplatform shoulder 314. The platform shoulder 314 has a central hole 315.A threaded brass insert 320 is latched into the central hole 315. Apunch out template adorns the central portion of the mounting plate 300.The punch out template is comprised of multiple locking holes 310, and acentral electrical lead hole 305 which permits mating of the universalmounting bracket 299 with common electrical boxes. The flat surface ofthe mounting plate 300 also contains numerous evenly dispersed drillholes 312. The drill holes 312 permit fastening of mounting bracket 299on surfaces lacking common electrical boxes. A worker skilled in therelevant art would appreciate the various methods of installing themounting bracket directly to the wall or ceiling.

With reference to FIG. 57, the fixture plate 325 is shown in greaterdetail. The upper edge of fixture plate 325 extends out to form aplatform shoulder 332. The platform shoulder 332 contains a central hole340. A threaded brass insert 355 is latched into the central hole 340.The lower edge of the fixture plate 325 extends out at a 90° angle tofrom protrusion 330. The flat surface of the fixture plate 325 contains4 light fixture 5 attachment holes 335. The attachment holes are used tofasten the universal mounting bracket 299 to a light fixture 5 (notshown). A worker skilled in the relevant art would appreciate thevarious methods of attaching the mounting bracket to a light fixture 5,such as: screws; rivets; nuts and bolts; glue.

With reference to FIG. 58 the universal mounting bracket 299 is shown inits closed configuration. The mounting plate 300 and the fixture plate325 are connected through use of a hinge 345, and platform shoulderextensions 314 and 332. The mounting plate 300 and the fixture plate 325are locked together by placement of a threaded bolt (not shown) throughlatched brass inserts 320 and 355. A worker skilled in the relevant arewould appreciate the various methods of locking the mounting plate 300and fixture plate 325 together at the platform shoulders. The hinge 345is secured to the lower portion of the mounting plate 300, and fixtureplate 325 protrusion 330. A worker skilled in the relevant art wouldappreciate the various methods of securing the hinge 345 to the mounting300 and fixture 325 plates, such as: screws; rivets; nuts and bolts;glue.

With reference to FIG. 59 the universal mounting bracket 299 is shown inpartially opened configuration. The hinge 345 allows the mounting plate300 and the fixture plate 325 to separate at the upper region whilemaintaining a close interaction at the lower region. The hinge acts as apivot point allowing the mounting plate 300 and the fixture plate 325 toseparate producing an angle. Travel to open confirmation is accomplishedby replacing the locking mechanism at the platform shoulders with acommercially available tool-less adjustable cable gripper 350 and cablecoupler 365 which are defined as an adjustable means. The tool-lessadjustable cable gripper 350 is fastened onto the fixture plate 325 bythreading onto the latched brass insert 355. The cable coupler 365 isfastened onto the mounting plate 300 by threading onto the latched brassinsert 320. The tool-less adjustable cable gripper 350 and the cablecoupler 365 secure the aircraft cable 360 to universal mounting bracket299. The mounting angle is determined by the length of the aircraftcable 360 located between the tool-less adjustable cable gripper 350 andthe cable coupler 365. Altering the length of the interposed aircraftcable 360 is done by depressing the plunger of the tool-less cablegripper 350. Once depressed, the aircraft cable travels freely throughthe tool-less adjustable cable gripper 350, thereby allowing the enduser to change the mounting angle. Excess aircraft cable 360 is driventhrough the tool-less adjustable cable gripper 350. Releasing theplunger locks the aircraft cable in place.

With reference to FIG. 60 the universal mounting bracket 299 is shown infully opened configuration. In this configuration, the mounting plate300 and the fixture plate 325 are perpendicular and form an L shape atthe pivot point. In fully open configuration, the fixture plateprotrusion 330 aligns with the mounting plate 300. As a result, thehinge is fully extended and prevents further extension at the pivotpoint.

With reference to FIG. 61, a fully open universal mounting bracket 299is shown attached to light fixture 5. The fixture plate 325 attaches tolight fixture 5 through bolt linkers (not shown) penetrating theattachment holes 335. The bolts (not shown) pass through the attachmentholes 335 and are fastened to the first and second driver channel 20,22. The number of parallel lamp assembly units 30 housed within thefirst and second opening 25, 27 will vary the width of the lightfixture. The width of the fixture may alter the method of fasteningrequired to attach the mounting bracket 299 to light fixture 5. Thefastening location may change from the first and second driver channels20, 22, to a single channel or to the light fixture bridge 15 (notshown). A worker skilled in the relevant art would appreciate thedifferent locations and different fastening methods required to attachthe light fixture 5 to the mounting bracket 299, such as: screws;rivets; nuts and bolts; glue.

One or more of the components and functions illustrated in FIGS. 1-61may be rearranged and/or combined into a single component or embodied inseveral components without departing from the invention. Additionalelements or components may also be added without departing from theinvention.

While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in theaccompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments aremerely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, andthat this invention not be limited to the specific constructions andarrangements shown and described, since various other modifications arepossible. Those skilled, in the art will appreciate that variousadaptations and modifications of the just described preferred embodimentcan be configured without departing from the scope and spirit of theinvention. Therefore, it is to be understood that, within the scope ofthe appended claims, the invention may be practiced other than asspecifically described herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for controlling a lighting systemcomprising: powering ON a light source, the light source having a highintensity level, an adjustable standby intensity level, and an OFFintensity level, and wherein the adjustable standby intensity level isdimmer than the high intensity level but brighter than the OFF intensitylevel; decreasing an intensity of the light source from the highintensity level to the adjustable standby intensity level when a sensorof the lighting system fails to detect a person's presence within apredetermined period of time; and adjusting a light intensity setting ofthe adjustable standby intensity level based on an amount of humantraffic detected by the sensor within one or more periods of time, thelight intensity setting controlling a light intensity of the adjustablestandby intensity level, wherein the light intensity setting of theadjustable standby intensity level is adjusted for a subsequentutilization of the adjustable standby intensity level.
 2. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising: incrementally increasing the lightintensity setting of the adjustable standby intensity level when aperson's presence is detected by the sensor before expiration of atimer; and incrementally decreasing the light intensity setting of theadjustable standby intensity level when a person's presence is detectedby the sensor after expiration of the timer.
 3. The method of claim 1,further comprising: increasing the intensity of the light source from aninitial intensity level to the high intensity level after the sensordetects a person's presence; and starting a first countdown timer afterincreasing the light source intensity from the initial intensity levelto the high intensity level.
 4. The method of claim 3, furthercomprising: restarting the first countdown timer when the sensor detectsa person's presence; and maintaining the intensity at the high intensitylevel while the first countdown timer is running.
 5. The method of claim3, further comprising: decreasing the intensity from the high intensitylevel to the adjustable standby intensity level when the first countdowntimer expires without the sensor detecting a person's presence; andstarting a second countdown timer after the first countdown timerexpires without the sensor detecting a person's presence.
 6. The methodof claim 5, further comprising: incrementally increasing the lightintensity setting of the adjustable standby intensity level when thesensor detects a person's presence before the second countdown timerexpires.
 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: increasing theintensity from the adjustable standby intensity level to the highintensity level when the sensor detects a person's presence before thesecond countdown timer expires; and restarting the first countdowntimer.
 8. The method of claim 6, further comprising: incrementallyincreasing a time duration setting of at least one of the firstcountdown timer and/or the second countdown timer when the sensordetects a person's presence before the second countdown timer expires.9. The method of claim 5, further comprising: maintaining the lightintensity setting of the adjustable standby intensity level at a maximumvalue when the sensor detects a person's presence before the secondcountdown timer expires; increasing the intensity from the adjustablestandby intensity level to the maximum intensity level when the sensordetects a person's presence before the second countdown timer expires;and restarting the first countdown timer.
 10. The method of claim 5,further comprising: decreasing the intensity from the adjustable standbyintensity level to a low standby intensity level when the secondcountdown timer expires without the sensor detecting a person'spresence; and starting a third countdown timer after the secondcountdown timer expires without the sensor detecting a person'spresence.
 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: incrementallydecreasing the light intensity setting of the adjustable standbyintensity level when the sensor detects a person's presence before thethird countdown timer expires.
 12. The method of claim 11, furthercomprising: increasing the intensity from the low standby intensitylevel to the high intensity level when the sensor detects a person'spresence before the third countdown timer expires; and restarting thefirst countdown timer.
 13. The method of claim 11, further comprising:incrementally decreasing a time duration setting of at least one of thefirst countdown timer, the second countdown timer, and/or the thirdcountdown timer when the sensor detects a person's presence before thethird countdown timer expires.
 14. The method of claim 10, furthercomprising: maintaining the light intensity setting of the adjustablestandby intensity level at a minimum value when the sensor detects aperson's presence before the third countdown timer expires; increasingthe intensity from the low standby intensity level to the high intensitylevel when the sensor detects a person's presence before the thirdcountdown timer expires; and restarting the first countdown timer. 15.The method of claim 10, further comprising: decreasing the intensityfrom the low standby intensity level to the OFF intensity level when thethird countdown timer expires without the sensor detecting a person'spresence.
 16. The method of claim 10, decreasing the intensity from thelow standby intensity level to the OFF intensity level when (a) thethird countdown timer expires without the sensor detecting a person'spresence and (b) a determination is made that an end of time period isin effect.
 17. A lighting system comprising: a light source having ahigh intensity level, an adjustable standby intensity level, and an OFFintensity level, the adjustable standby intensity level being dimmerthan the high intensity level and brighter than the OFF intensity level;a sensor adapted to detect a person's presence; and a light controllercommunicatively coupled to the light source and the sensor, the lightcontroller adapted to decrease an intensity of the light source from thehigh intensity level to the adjustable standby intensity level when thesensor fails to detect a person's presence within a predetermined periodof time, and adjust a light intensity setting of the adjustable standbyintensity level based on an amount of human traffic detected by thesensor within one or more periods of time, the light intensity settingcontrolling a light intensity of the adjustable standby intensity level,wherein the light intensity setting of the adjustable standby intensitylevel is adjusted for a subsequent utilization of the adjustable standbyintensity level.
 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the lightcontroller is further adapted to: incrementally increase the lightintensity setting of the adjustable standby intensity level when aperson's presence is detected by the sensor before expiration of atimer; and incrementally decrease the light intensity setting of theadjustable standby intensity level when a person's presence is detectedby the sensor after expiration of the timer.
 19. The system of claim 18,wherein the light controller is further adapted to: increase theintensity of the light source from an initial intensity level to thehigh intensity level after the sensor detects a person's presence; andstart a first countdown timer after increasing the light sourceintensity from the initial intensity level to the high intensity level.20. The system of claim 19, wherein the light controller is furtheradapted to: decrease the intensity from the high intensity level to theadjustable standby intensity level when the first countdown timerexpires without the sensor detecting a person's presence; and start asecond countdown timer after the first countdown timer expires withoutthe sensor detecting a person's presence.